Hardwood floors are incredibly popular, but when it comes to outfitting rentals, property managers still turn to carpet time after time. Why? They're cost-effective, easily removed and bring a sense of warmth to an otherwise empty space. But Scott Safadi of Cal Bay Property Management recommends doing your homework before installing just any carpet.
There are two kinds of carpet: cut pile and loop pile. Cut pile carpet strands stand up vertically, while loop pile carpet strands loop back down to the base. Loop pile carpet may age better, but when something gets caught in the loop, the entire carpet can become snagged. For rentals, cut pile is the best option.
It's also important to consider the fibers available. Nylon is considered an industry standard for apartment rentals. This durable, resilient fabric tends to hold up to stains well and is easily cleaned between tenants. A once over with a wet vacuum carpet cleaner will usually bring up any stains that might have occurred.
Of course, color is also important to consider when shopping for carpet for rentals. Neutrals are a must, with dark tan or light brown being the best option. These show less age and wear over time than other options. Speckled carpet is also a decent option, with speckling working to hide any dirt that might be tracked into the space.
Whatever you decide upon for your rental, avoid selecting the cheapest carpet on principle. You get what you pay for, and simply opting for something slightly above rock bottom can really benefit you in the long-term.
- Scott Safadi, Cal Bay Property Management
Hardwood floors are incredibly popular, but when it comes to outfitting rentals, property managers still turn to carpet time after time. Why? They're cost-effective, easily removed and bring a sense of warmth to an otherwise empty space. But Scott Safadi of Cal Bay Property Management recommends doing your homework before installing just any carpet.
There are two kinds of carpet: cut pile and loop pile. Cut pile carpet strands stand up vertically, while loop pile carpet strands loop back down to the base. Loop pile carpet may age better, but when something gets caught in the loop, the entire carpet can become snagged. For rentals, cut pile is the best option.
It's also important to consider the fibers available. Nylon is considered an industry standard for apartment rentals. This durable, resilient fabric tends to hold up to stains well and is easily cleaned between tenants. A once over with a wet vacuum carpet cleaner will usually bring up any stains that might have occurred.
Of course, color is also important to consider when shopping for carpet for rentals. Neutrals are a must, with dark tan or light brown being the best option. These show less age and wear over time than other options. Speckled carpet is also a decent option, with speckling working to hide any dirt that might be tracked into the space.
Whatever you decide upon for your rental, avoid selecting the cheapest carpet on principle. You get what you pay for, and simply opting for something slightly above rock bottom can really benefit you in the long-term.
